At Grace Life International, we’ve helped thousands of people discover the freedom that God offers over depression, stress, destructive habits, marital struggles, and family problems. However, we also know that there are many reasons why Christians are hesitant to pursue Christian counseling. Based on our experience, below are ten of the most common concerns:
1. Why pay for counseling when I can just work out the problem on my own?
Wouldn’t it feel strange to learn how to scuba dive on your own? If your car breaks down, do you want to fix it by yourself? Many challenges in life are best solved with the help of someone who has long term proven success. True Christian counseling combines Biblical wisdom, compassion, and God’s healing power to address your specific need and find freedom.
2. Counseling is expensive. How can I afford it?
Can you afford to let a persistent struggle or destructive relationship ruin your daily life? At Grace Life, our discipleship counseling services are offered on a sliding monetary scale based on income. We help make counseling affordable for everyone.
3. Does going for counseling mean something is wrong with me?
Let’s face it… something is wrong with all of us! The Bible says every person is born a sinner in need of a Savior, Jesus Christ. Even after our salvation, we still have struggles at times. Counseling doesn’t mean something is wrong. It means you’re ready to set things right and experience the life God intends you enjoy.
4. Once I start counseling, won’t they make me do it forever?
Counseling helps people uncover the root problem and find freedom. The faster you identify the core issue, the quicker healing occurs. Counseling is never meant to be permanent. Freedom is meant to be permanent, and we can’t wait to help you get there!
5. If I trust God more and pray harder, won’t my problem go away on its own?
Prayer and trusting God is crucial, but it doesn’t always remove problems from our lives. Many issues we experience are related to underlying beliefs we may not realize or know how to uncover. Our discipleship counseling is known to uncover those underlying beliefs which are causing our struggles. Then we can help you find address the real problem fully.
6. Isn’t Christian counseling spiritual only, what about the emotional and mental stuff?
If Christian counseling is just spiritual only, we could just pray together and go home. Yet, the Bible says we have a spirit, soul, and body. Our discipleship counseling is designed to help tackle spiritual, emotional, and mental concerns.
7. What if my counselor judges me?
If a counselor judges you – run away, don’t walk! Our discipleship counseling is based on the compassionate, understanding, and loving heart of God. No one is perfect. Our type of counseling is meant to help develop maturity, not expect it.
8. Why share private personal information with a stranger?
We also advise against sharing personal information with strangers. However, our discipleship counselors provide a safe environment where you can be totally open, vulnerable, and safe. All discussions are kept confidential and your privacy is respected at all times.
9. Why rehash old hurts or past pain? It was bad enough the first time.
Old hurts and past pain are usually a driving force behind many of our current struggles and relationship problems. They’re like a virus working against us. Discipleship counseling can help address the past so that your future is free. Let’s make the past…the past.
10. What if my counselor is a fruit-loop and gives me terrible advice?
If you’re concerned about getting bad advice from a counselor, here’s why counseling at Grace Life International is so unique. Our approach is fully based on the wisdom and power of God’s word, the Bible. God’s truths represent the best advice you could ever receive. You’re not talking to a “shrink,” you’re talking to someone who wants you to experience God’s best for your life.
If you harbor any of these 10 concerns about Christian counseling, we understand. However, if your marriage is struggling or you’re wrestling with a personal problem, we urge you to get help. None of the reasons above should keep you from experiencing the peace and wholeness that God wants you to enjoy. Click on a button below more information about our effective counseling services:
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